May is Mental Health Month
Mental illnesses are
disorders of the brain that disrupt a person’s
thinking, feelings, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily
functioning. Just as diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas, mental
illnesses are disorders of the brain that may impact a person’s
ability to cope with the ordinary demands of life.
Stigma and misinformation often prevent people from talking about
or seeking treatment for mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar
disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety
disorders. This isolates individuals and families at a time when
they need help the most.
Mental illnesses can be a secondary problem among people with other
disabilities. Depression and anxiety, for example, are seen more
frequently among people with disabilities than those without disabilities.
The Surgeon General’s
report on Mental Health made a clear connection between mental
and physical health and stressed the fundamental importance of
mental health to overall health and well-being. The report recognized
that mental disorders affect nearly one in five Americans in any
given year. It characterized these mental disorders as real illnesses,
that, when left untreated, can be just as serious and disabling
as physical diseases such as cancer and heart disease. The report
also emphasized that mental health and mental illness are concerns
for persons of all ages, from childhood through later adulthood.
It is important to realize that mental illnesses are not the result
of personal weakness, lack of character, or a poor upbringing. It
is equally essential to know that these brain disorders are treatable
and that recovery is possible.
Treatments may include prescribed medications, cognitive behavioral
therapy, interpersonal therapy, self-help and support groups, as
well as housing services, supported employment and other community
services.
The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Minnesota (NAMI-MN)
can provide more information about mental illnesses and helpful resources.
NAMI also offers classes and support groups for families so they
can learn more about mental illness and better ways of coping. For
more info, call 651-645-2948 or (toll free) 1-888-473-0237.
NAMI-MN’s mission
is to champion justice, dignity, and respect for all Minnesotans
affected by mental illness (brain disorders). Through education,
advocacy and support, NAMI members strive to eliminate the pervasive
stigma of mental illness, affect positive changes in the mental
health system, and increase public and professional understanding
of mental illness. NAMI-MN is a state affiliate of the National Alliance
for the Mentally Ill, a nonprofit organization.
